Noughts & Crosses by Malorie Blackman, adapted by Sabrina Mahfouz - ★★★☆☆

Set in a dystopian reality where the Crosses (Black people) were the ruling class over the Noughts (White people), Persephone (Sephy) Hadley, a cross, was filled with hope that change would come one way or another. The show provides a thorough but elongated perspective on Malorie Blackman’s book and carries the audience on this journey of hope over a 3+ year timeline. 

The story mirrors a Romeo and Juliet style tale where Sephy and her best friend/lover Callum (a nought), are both trying to fight for their love in a space where it is forbidden. Their parents do not see eye to eye and there is a revolution brewing between the two communities that causes tragedy in various ways including death and heartbreak. As individuals, both Callum and Sephy are navigating their own problems as they are suffocated and ignored by all around them. Sephy’s mum is an alcoholic and her dad, the Home Secretary, is never at home. Callum’s older brother is ready to join the militia group causing havoc to their community and his dad, co-signing by giving his support.  

The play draws a spotlight to a range of issues including mental health, dysfunctional families, prejudice, violence, alcoholism and bullying which is presented in a captivating and tamed manner by the cast and also displayed in the direction and transitions throughout the play.

The casting overall was very strong, both Sephy (Effie Ansah) and Callum’s (James Arden) characters had great synergy and supported each other well to deliver the story at hand. Another stand out character was Nathaniel McCloskey (Jude), who embodied his various characters with perfection.

Whilst the statement above stands firm, at times the character crosses during the performance were confusing and unclear which detracted from the story and made some scenes less believable. There were also times in which the script overemphasised certain points, discrediting the nuance of expression and removing the enigma from the audience.

The adaptation of books to play can be difficult, and though parts of this story felt unnecessarily drawn out - directing and putting on a story as powerful as Noughts and Crosses whilst sticking true to the heart of the novel is praiseworthy. 

Showing at Rose Theatre until 11 February, touring till April 2023.